Hippos in Colombia: Issues and Insights

Hippos, originally brought to Colombia by Pablo Escobar, have become a growing problem as they escape and establish themselves in the wild. Wildlife vet Dr. Gina Cerna and South African expert Chris Hobkirk are working to control the population by monitoring their movements using motion capture cameras. The footage reveals that hippos are traveling far from their original location, raising concerns about their impact on the environment and potential danger to humans.

What is the origin of the hippos currently causing issues in Colombia?

• They were imported for a zoo.

• They migrated naturally.

• They escaped from a circus.

• They were pets of Pablo Escobar.

Who is Dr. Gina Cerna?

• A local farmer

• A wildlife veterinarian

• A government official

• A journalist

What is Chris Hobkirk's expertise?

• Botany

• Veterinary medicine

• Big game capture

• Marine biology

What marks the entrance of Hacienda Napoles?

• A waterfall

• A hippo statue

• A large gate

• A signboard

Why is Hacienda Napoles considered a 'hippo heaven'?

• It has no predators.

• It has high annual rainfall.

• It is a protected area.

• It has abundant food supply.

What technology did Chris and Gina use to monitor the hippos?

• Motion capture cameras

• GPS collars

• Drones

• Satellite imagery

What did the footage from the cameras reveal about the hippos?

• They travel long distances.

• They are nocturnal.

• They are decreasing in number.

• They stay close to the lake.

How far did some hippos travel from Hacienda Napoles?

• 5 kilometers

• 10 kilometers

• 20 kilometers

• 15 kilometers

What is the main concern regarding the hippos' movement?

• They are not returning to the lake.

• They could establish new territories.

• They might invade cities.

• They are becoming aggressive.

What could complicate the control of the hippo population?

• New territories being established

• Lack of expertise

• Lack of funding

• Increased rainfall